I have always had an interest in politics and government, and knew I would eventually try my hand at public office. I studied International Studies, which has a very strong component of relations between governments, nations, the environment, security and even individuals.
What intrigues me the most about policy making, are the examples we can find around the world, where governments have used innovation and radical new ideas to improve the lives of their citizens. And when I say radical ideas, I simply mean "outside the box" or unconventional ideas have been used to solve complex problems. We shouldn't expect different results when we utilize the same strategies over and over, especially when they have not yielded the results we want.
I would very much like to be a part of a council team which focuses on relationship building with provincial and federal governments, consulting with experts and thinking outside of the box to help improve the climate change crisis, homelessness, affordability, aboriginal reconciliation, transit and addictions in our community.
Inclusion is also profoundly important to me. I would like to participate in and contribute to strategies for making everyone feel included in our community. Ultimately, we want people who grow up in Maple Ridge or come to Maple Ridge, to feel it is a place worth staying, regardless of gender, race, faith, orientation or economic status. I want Maple Ridge to be a place everyone can feel included and proud of.